Revolutionary War Pension and Bounty Land Warrant Application File W. 9414, Joseph Durfee, Mass.

SERVICE
NUMBER
Mass
Durfee, Joseph Elizabeth
W. 9414
CONTENTS
This woman was also pensioned as former widow of her first husband, Eleazer Nichols, Mass., W. 27509.

15311.
Massachusetts
Joseph Surfee of Bristol in the State of Massachusetts who was a Sergeant in the company commanded by Captain ... of the regt command. by Genl  Cornell in the ... line for ...  St  Coln
15 " Major 11 " 8 Capt
Inscribed on the Roll of ... at the rate of 5 1/2 Dollars ... Cents per annum; to commence on the 4th day of March, 1831.
Certificate of Pension issued the 8th day of June 1833 and ... ...
Arrears to the 4th of June 1833 $ 1084 Semi-ant. allowance ending ...  271
$1355.
{ Revolutionary Claim, } { Nov June 7, 1832. }
Recorded by J. H. No. 1 Clerk, Book ... Vol. 2 Page 19

364 Massachusetts Elizabeth Dufee widow of Joseph Mass who served in the Revolutionary war, as a Lt. Col. Major & Captain.
Inscribed on the Roll at the rate of 572 Dollars 00
Cents per annum, to commence on the 4th day of March, 1848,
3 rd February 1853 Certificate of Pension issued the 13 th day of May 1853.
and sent to
• S. M. Thayer Present
Recorded on Roll of Pensioners under act Feb 22 1848 , Page 38 Vol. A
1852

Commonwealth of Massachusetts, ) BRISTOL, ss. )
At a COURT of PROBATE holden at Scituate in and for said County on the thirtieth day of August one thousand eight hundred and thirty-two, before the Honorable HODJAH BAYLES , Judge of the Probate, &c. for said County, personally appeared Joseph Dyer a resident of Tray in the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, aged eighty two years, who being first duly sworn according to law, doth on his oath, in order to obtain the benefit of the act of Congress, passed June 7th, 1832, make the following declaration. — That he entered the service of the United States under the following named officers and served as herein after stated — to wit: That he entered said service as a captain, under Colonel Thomas Carpenter as major, Colonel John Cook — Colonel John Hathaway — Colonel  Assistant Colonel  General  Colonel Gates — General Cumnell —
and further declares as follows, in reply to the interrogatories propounded by the Secretary of War; to wit:
1. Where, and in what year were you born?
Ans. That he was born in Scituate in the County of Bristol and state of Massachusetts  April 27 th in the year one thousand seven hundred and fifty
2. Have you any record of your age; and if so, where is it? — my age is recorded in an ancient family bible of my fathers —
3. Where were you living when called into service; where have you lived since the Revolutionary War, and where do you now live? He said Scituate I lived when first called into service — Since the Revolutionary War, I have lived in said Scituate — in Scituate in the state of Rhode Island — I now live in Tray in the County of Bristol and state of Massachusetts
4. How were you called into service; were you drafted, did you volunteer, or were you a substitute? and if a substitute, for whom?
voluntarily entered  entered the first and every time of my service in the Massachusetts state services
5. State the names of some of the Regular Officers who were with the troops when you served; such Continental and Militia Regiments as you can recollect, and the general circumstances of your service.
under Colonel Thomas Carpenter — Colonel John Hathaway — Colonel John Cook — Colonel Whitney — General Gates — General Cumnell. That early in the year seventeen hundred and seventy five I received a captain's commission from the Massachusetts Convention, raised a company of minute men, and with them was stationed at Hall River to guard the towns on the shores of the Taunton River against the attacks of the British who were then harassing our shores and threatening to burn our towns. That I continued at Hall River as aforesaid about fifteen months when I was ordered by the state of Massachusetts to take the command of a company of sixty men in the Massachusetts state service and march into the state of New York — which I did and joined the Regiment commanded by Colonel Thomas Carpenter as arrived at White Plains a few days previous to the battle there between the British and American troops — I was actively engaged in the battle there, and continued on duty there as a captain until November seventeen hundred and seventy six — about six months that, in the fall of seventeen hundred and seventy six, I marched with the company under my command to Scituate, Rhode Island state,

and there joined the Regiment commanded by Colonel John Cask and with said Regiment marched on to Rhode Island & assisted in covering the retreat of the American troops from that Island - That late in the year seventeen hundred and seventy six I received a major's commission, in the Regiment commanded by Colonel John Hathaway, and in January or February of the year seventeen hundred and seventy seven I was stationed as Major at Little Compton, Rhode Island state - where I continued on duty until the latter part of sometime in the summer following, about six months I think - That in February or March of the year seventeen hundred and seventy eight I was stationed as Major with twenty men under my command, at Hall River to guard the towns on the shores of Norton Sound - That while here I received an order from General Sullivan for two whale boats - and an order on the Commissioners at Bristol for rations for the guard under my command - That while I was stationed at Hall River as aforesaid, the British troops landed there, burnt one building and set fire to several others - That I engaged in a battle with the British troops at Hall River and compelled them to retreat with the loss of several men in killed and wounded - This battle was in May 1778 - I continued doing duty as major at said Hall River until some time in August seventeen hundred and seventy eight about six months as near as I can recollect - When I was ordered to join Sullivan's expedition on Rhode Island, where I continued on duty as major in Colonel Whiting's Regiment, in General Decomb's Brigade about one month - When I was ordered to Pawtuxet, state of Rhode Island - where I continued to do duty as Major until December seventeen hundred and seventy eight about three months as near as I can recollect - That sometime in January or February of the year seventeen hundred and seventy nine, as near as I can recollect, I received a lieutenant colonel's commission and with the Regiment under my command joined General Bennett's Brigade at Kingston aforesaid, where I continued on duty as lieutenant colonel, until the British troops evacuated Rhode Island in October seventeen hundred and seventy nine - when I with my Regiment under the command of General Gates and General Brownell took possession of Newport, where I continued on duty as aforesaid until late in December of the year seventeen hundred and seventy nine, being about ten or eleven months service under my lieutenant colonel's commission - That I was in the service of my country, as an officer in the Revolutionary War about four years - That I was actually engaged in said service, acting under a major's and a lieutenant colonel's commission something more than two years - That my captain and my lieutenant colonel's commissions are both lost - That my Major's commission and my commission was sent to Congress with a petition for a pension, by either the Hon. Marcus Morton or the Hon. Francis Wayles, when they were Representatives to Congress from Bristol District

6. Were you a Soldier or an Officer? if a Soldier, did you ever receive a discharge from the Service; and, if so, by whom was it given, and what has become of it? if an Officer, did you ever receive a commission, and if so by whom was it signed, and what has become of it?
I was an officer during my services in the Revolutionary War - I received my Major's commission from the Massachusetts Convention - My retirement balance of commission was signed by John Hancock - I need a discharge and sent it to Congress since then have not seen it
7. State the names of the persons to whom you are known in your present neighborhood, and who can testify as to your character for veracity, and their belief of your services as a Soldier of the Revolution.
Colonel Joseph E. Head - Captain Sheffield Weaver - Captain Richard Dunfee - Revd Philip Hathaway - Revd Amos Kauten - Hon James L. Hodges - Hon Marcus Morton - Hon. J. Sherwin Knight - Hon. Justin Bangs - Hon. Darius D. Pierce
And the said Joseph Dunfee doth further declare that he hereby relinquishes every claim whatever to a pension or annuity except the present, and that his name is not on the Pension Roll of the Agency of any State, or (if any) only on that of the Agency of the State of Joseph Dunfee
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid.
A. T. Dyer , Judge of Probate.
WE Philip Hathaway a clergyman in the County of Bristol and James Ladd certify that we are well acquainted with Joseph Dunfee
residing in Freeport residing in Freeport  Freeport hereby
who has subscribed and sworn to the above declaration; that we believe him to be eighty two years of age; that he is reputed and believed, in the neighborhood where he resides to have been a soldier  veteran of the Revolution, and that we concur in that opinion.
Philip Hathaway James Ladd
Sworn to and subscribed, the day and year aforesaid.
A. T. Dyer , Judge of Probate.
AND the said Court do hereby declare their opinion, after the investigation of the matter and after putting the interrogatories prescribed by the War Department, that the abovenamed applicant was a Revolutionary Soldier, and served as he states. And the Court further certifies, that it appears to them that Philip Hathaway who has signed the preceding certificate is a clergyman resident in the Town of Freeport in said County of Bristol, and that James Ladd who has also signed the same is a resident in said Town  Freeport and is a credible person, and that their statement is entitled to credit.
A. T. Dyer , Judge of Probate. Register of Probate
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS, } BRISTOL, ss.
I Anselm Bassett Register of the Court of Probate in and for said County do hereby certify that the foregoing contains the original proceedings of the said Court in the matter of the application of Joseph Dunfee of Freeport in said County, for a Pension.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of the said Court the day and year first above written.
Anselm Bassett

Capt. 5893. Joseph Burfee — J.F.

Joseph Clarke 5893
Last col 7 Mar 12 days May 5 Mar - Capt 11 " 18 5. 14 41 6 th Cts.
Dec 21 st
1882
Mr J L Hodges 12 196. Present
A. Bissett Esq. Newton Muds

BRIEF in the case of  Joseph Dufee  of Bristol Co. in the State of Mass  (Act 7th June, 1832.)
 1. Was the declaration made before a Court or a Judge? Open Court  2. If before a Judge, does it appear that the applicant is disabled by bodily infirmity?  3. How old is he? 82 Years  4. State his service, as directed in the form annexed. 
   Period. Duration of Service. Rank. Names of General and Field Officers under whom he served.   Years, Months, Days.     In 17 75- 16 Capt. Gen. Col. Jos Carpenter   76 4 5 Maj. John Cook   78 John Hathaway   79 7. 12 Lt. Col. Whitney   Genl. Cornell  
 5. In what battles was he engaged? White Plains, Fall River  6. Where did he reside when he entered the service? Bristol Ky  7. Is his statement supported by living witnesses, by documentary proof, by traditional evidence, by incidental evidence, or by the rolls? Traditional Evidence Living Witnesses  8. Are the papers defective as to form or authentication? and if so, in what respect? Defective time not defined 
I certify that the foregoing statement and the answers agree with the evidence in the case above mentioned.
Examining Clerk.

STATE OF Massachusetts COUNTY OF Bristol } ss.
Be it known , that on this Sixteenth day of February , A. D. eighteen hundred and fifty three , before Oliver Prescott Judge of Probate in and for the County and State aforesaid, personally appeared Elizabeth  Dunfee , a resident of Freeport in said County, and made oath according to law, that she is the widow of Joseph Dunfee who was a soldier in the war of the Revolution and a pensioner of the United States at the time of his death at the rate of $540 per annum—that she was married to the said Joseph Dunfee on the 24th day of January eighteen hundred and nineteen in the town of Freeport and State of Massachusetts that her said husband died on the 18th day of December eighteen hundred and forty one that she makes this declaration for the purpose of obtaining such a rate of Pension as may be due under any of the Laws, Regulations, or decisions that have been or may hereafter be adopted. and that she continues the widow of the said Joseph Dunfee ,
The said Declarant further states, that she hereby constitutes and appoints John M. Thayer her true and lawful Attorney and Agent to prosecute said claim, with power of substitution, to examine all papers and documents in relation to it, and to do all things necessary and lawful in the premises; except drawing the money, which will be hereafter provided for.
Sworn to and subscribed the day and year aforesaid before me; And I further certify that the said Oliver Prescott Elizabeth by reason of bodily infirmity & age, is unable to attend Court.
Oliver Prescott Judge of Probate
I, Oliver Prescott Judge of Probate in and for the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify that Elizabeth Dunfee , above named, is a respectable resident of this County, and is the same person she represents herself to be in the foregoing declaration; she has this day appeared before me and acknowledge the above Power of Attorney to be her act and deed.
Oliver Prescott Judge of Probate
STATE OF Massachusetts Bristol County, ss. }
I Samuel Groot Clerk of the County Common Pleas for the County and State aforesaid, do hereby certify, that Oliver Prescott Esq. before whom the foregoing proceedings were had, was at the time of execution, a Judge of Probate in and for said County, duly commissioned and qualified; and that the foregoing signatures purporting to be his, are genuine.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have hereunto affixed my seal of Office and subscribed my name, this first day of March in the year 185 3
S. Groot
County Clerk.

O. W. & N. Division.
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR, Bureau of Pensions, Washington, D. C.,
M.E.C.
August 23, 1895.
F. S.
Sir:
In reply to your request for a statement of the military history of --- Joseph Durfee --- N 9414 a soldier of the REVOLUTIONARY WAR, you will find below the desired information as contained in his (or his widow's) application for pension on file in this Bureau.
   DATES OF ENLISTMENT OR APPOINTMENT. LENGTH OF SERVICE. RANK. OFFICERS UNDER WHOM SERVICE WAS RENDERED. STATE.   CAPTAIN. COLONEL.     See Supplemental statement.  
Battles engaged in, See Supplemental statement.
Residence of soldier at enlistment, Freetown, Mass.
Date of application for pension, August 30, 1832.
Residence at date of application, Bristol Co., Mass.
Age at date of application, Born at Freetown, Mass., April 27, 1750.
Remarks: His widow, Elizabeth, to whom he was married Jan. 29, 1819, was also a pensioner. He died at Freetown, Mass., Dec. 10, 1841.
Very respectfully,
Wm. F. Rood, Esq., 915 P. St., N.E., Washington, D. C.
Commissioner.

Head Quarters Providence April 16 th 1780
Lt. Jo s Dufree the bearer the commander of a Guard of 20 Men at Sneddon Bay for Neutrality during the present weak state of the Army, has leave to take two of the Continental whale Boats to keep with said Guard to Reconnoitre the River, the Commanding Officer either at Bristol or Newton is directed to deliver the said Boats to the said Dufree taking his Receipt to Return them again when Called for by the Commanding Officer of this Army, or when his Guard is Relieved. The Commander at Bristol is also hereby directed to deliver Provision to the said Dufree on his order for said Guard. The Commander of said Guard to make  and due Returns to the said Commander, and also weekly Returns to Head Quarters by Thursday on each week
J. E. Sumner M g

The within order is Till further orders from Head Quarters Providence May 27 th 1878
Continued in all its parts Jno Sullivan M c Gon l Comd of the Army Rhode Island State
Deer John John Sullivan
DURFEE, JOSEPH (MASS.) W-9414

Resolve on Petition of Joseph Durfee, a Soldier of the Revolutionary War.
June 22. 1831
Resolved, That there be allowed and paid out of the treasury of this Commonwealth, to Joseph Durfee the sum of One hundred dollars, in full for services rendered by him in the Revolutionary War, and His Excellency, the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Council, is hereby authorized and requested to draw his Warrant accordingly.
A Copy; att. Edward D. Bangs Seymour D.

Personally appeared before me the undersigned, a Justice of the Peace in and for the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Joseph Dunfe of Hray in the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, the same person who made his declaration for a pension under the Act of the United States of June 7 th 1832, before the Hon. W. Baylies, Judge of the Court of Probate in and for said County of Bristol, on the 30 th day of August A.D. 1832 - and states, that having reviewed said Declaration and examined the certificates of Edward D. Bangs Esq. Secretary of State of Massachusetts, bearing the dates of Feb'y 4 th Feb'y 6 th and March 13 th 1833 which are hereto annexed and being duly sworn, deposeth and saith, that by reason of extreme old age and the consequent loss of memory, he is satisfied that he cannot distinctly recollect the exact times of his service nor the precise dates of his commissions, and cannot account for the statements in said Declaration of the time when he received his commissions in any other manner than that in 1775 he was elected captain of a company in what was then Freetown, now Hray, by said company, and officiated as captain of a company voluntarily raised in defense of their country, in the vicinity where he then resided - That while so officiating, he received a commission as captain, as he now believes, as stated in Mr Bangs' certificate - That immediately after receiving said such commission, under date of July 8 th 1776, he was ordered by the Government of Massachusetts to take the command of a company of sixty men and march into the state of New York - That in compliance with the said order, he, and the company under his command, joined the Regiment commanded by Colonel

Then was transferred and marched to White Plains in the state of New-York, where we arrived a short time before the battle there, which was in September 1796 — I continued on duty at White Plains and in that vicinity as Captain until late in November of the same year, not less than four months — when I was ordered back to Tiverton, Rhode Island and, with my company, joined Colonel Cook's Regiment and assisted in covering the retreat of the American troops from the Island of Rhode Island — Here, and at Tiverton, I was on duty not less than one month —
In the latter part of January or the beginning of February of the year 1797, I was stationed with the company under my command at Little Compton in the state of Rhode Island, in Colonel John Hathaway's Regiment, where I continued on duty until sometime in August following, not less than six months — In my Declaration, made before the Hon. H. Wayles, Judge of Probate as aforesaid, I have stated that I performed the last above named six months service as Major — This I believed at the time of making said Declaration to be strictly true — and can only account for that statement from my extreme old age (83 years) and my consequent loss of memory, and not having either of my commissions at that time to which I could refer for information on that point — That having seen the certificate of the aforesaid Edward D. Berrys Esq. bearing date March 13 th 1833, I am satisfied that the last above named six months service was performed as Captain, and not as Major — as in that Declaration is stated —
That in February or March 1798, I was stationed, at at Gold's River (not as Major) with twenty men under my

command, to guard the towns on the shores of Pam- tan River - That while stationed at at Hall River, in what was then the town of Sweetown, now Shady, I received an order from General Sullivan, and and an order for two whale Boats - and an order on the commissary for rations for the guard under my command - which order is herunto annexed -
In May 1778, while I was stationed at Hall River as aforesaid, the British troops landed there - With the few men under my command, I encountered them killed several of their men and compelled the remain- ders to retreat - I continued on duty at Hall River as as aforesaid until the following August, not less than five months, and sometime after I had recd. my Major's commission, -
In August 1778, I was ordered to join Sullivan's Expedition, as major, in Colonel Whitney's Re- giment and General Titcomb's Brigade, and continued on duty there not less than one month - when I was ordered to Pawtuxet in the state of Rhode Island, where I was stationed and continued on duty as Major until the last of December following not less than three months. But in whose Regiment or Brigade, I performed this last three months service, I do not now recollect -
In March 1779, I was again stationed at Tiverton in the state of Rhode Island, as Major in Col- onel John Wathaway's Regiment, and continued on duty as Major in said Regiment not less than one month
In the latter part of April 1779 I recd. a lieut. Colonel's commission, as will be seen by the certificate of Edward D. Bangs Esq hereto annexed, and not in January or February as I have stated

in my time Declaration of August 1832, and which I that supposed and believed to be correct, but on an examining said certificate I am satisfied and now believe that the time mentioned in said certificate is correct — On receiving my lieut. colonel's commission, I was ordered, with the Regiment under my command to join General Cornwall's Brigade in Kingston, Rhode Island, where I continued in the service of my country until the British troops evacuated Rhode Island, in October 1779 — not less than six months — I then, with the Regiment under my command, and others, under the command of General Gates and General Cornwall took possession of Newport on the Island of Rhode Island, and continued there on duty until sometime in December seventeen hundred and seventy nine, not less than six weeks —
I was actively engaged in the service of my country in the Revolutionary War, as Captain, after I had recd. my Captain's commission not less than six teen months — As Major, I was in active service not less than five months — and as Lieut. Colonel, I was actively engaged in my country's cause, not less than seven and a half months. And for such service, I claim a pension —
Joseph Dunfee
Commonwealth of Massachusetts — Bristol Co. March 18 th 1833 —
Sworn to and subscribed before me
James Hand Justice of the Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts — Bristol Co. March 18 th 1833 — I hereby certify that Joseph Dunfee, within named, is the same Joseph Dunfee, who, on the 30 th day of August A. D. 1832 made his declaration for a pension before the Hon. H. Wayles, Judge of Probate in and for said County of Bristol — James Hand Justice of the Peace

Rev WIDOW, &c.
File No. 9414
Elizabeth Durfee Wid
Joseph Durfee Capt Rev War
Act: Febry 3d  185
Index:—Vol. A , Page 199
[Arranged of 1870.]

Aug. 23 rd 1905
Heir. to W m F. Reed A.E., City. Mich.

I Nathan Turner of Warren in the state of Rhode Island, Physician, of lawful age to give evidence to testify and say, that I was well acquainted with Joseph Dunfee of Fry in the county of Bristol and state of Massachusetts, during the Revolutionary War and have known him ever since - That in the fall of seventeen hundred and seventy five, I did duty in a company of volunteers commanded by Capt Joseph Dunfee, not less than six weeks - at Fall River - That the said Joseph Dunfee was elected Captain by the company under his command, (of which I was one) in the beginning of the year seventeen hundred and seventy five - but when the said Dunfee received his commission for that office I am unable to say - That in the summer of seventeen hundred and seventy six I enlisted into a company commanded by the said Dunfee, stationed at Fall River, and served with said Dunfee not less than five months, and I think full six months - I knew the said Dunfee to be in his country's service as Captain at other times in the early part of the Revolutionary War, but how long, I am unable to say - I well remember that while I was in Capt. Dunfee's company, and quartered at Fall River - in the very last of the year 1777 or very early in 1778, it was stated repeatedly that the said Joseph Dunfee had recd. a Major's commission - I knew the said Dunfee to be actively engaged in his country's service as major in the years 1778 and in 1779 - I frequently saw him on duty while holding the office of major, and well remember visiting him at his manege on Rhode Island, during Sullivan's expedition there, at which time the said Dunfee was acting as major in Colonel Whitney's Regiment - I have no hesitation in stating it as my firm belief, from the knowledge I had of the said Dunfee's service in the War of the Revolution, that he was actively engaged in his country's service as major, and lieut colonel not less than one year and a half - In the spring, I think in May 1779 the said Joseph

Dunfee was engaged in the War, as Lieut. Colonel, and had command of a Regiment - I distinctly recollect it, because at that time the said Dunfee offered me a commission in his Regiment, but which, in consequence of my having previously engaged myself in another quarter I declined - And further the Deponent saith not
Aaron Turner
Bristol ss. March 9 th 1833 - Personally appeared the above named Aaron Turner a disinterested witness and a credible person and made oath to the foregoing statement by him made and subscribed, before me James Ford Justice of the Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Bristol ss. I Anselm Barrett Register of the Court of Probate in for said County, do hereby certify that James Ford whose signature is subscribed to the above certificate is a Justice of the Peace in for said County of Bristol and duly qualified to administer oaths - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand at the seat of said Court this twentieth day of March eighteen hundred thirty three Anselm Barrett
Aaron Turner Deponent

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Bristol ss. I Anselm Bassett Register of the Court of Probate in for said County of Bristol, do hereby certify that James Ford whose certificate is affixed to the annexed additional declaration for a pension, is a Justice of the Peace in for said County of Bristol and duly qualified to administer oaths -
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & the seal of said Court This twenty eighth day of March Eighteen hundred and thirty three -
Anselm Bassett

Taunton Mass. March 21. 1833
Sir,
Herewith you have the papers in the case of Col. Joseph Dufres for a pension - I wish you to examine the same soon as you conveniently can; and if he is entitled to a pension, that a certificate thereof be made and forwarded to me - I ask this in behalf of said Dufres, who is very poor and very infirm as also very aged - He is confined to his room & unable to do any thing towards a living - He is supported by the charity of his relations & friends. If he can get his pension they will be relieved - I do not mention these things to excite your sympathy, but to call your attention to his case -
The Legislature of Mass. in 1831 gave Col. Dufres $100 on account of his Revolutionary services - An attested copy is among the papers - I am not aware that it can be of any service in the investigation of his case - Very Respectfully Your Obedt Servt A. Bassett
Genl. L. Edwards Esq Comm. of Pensions Washington -

W. L. Edwards Esq. Commissioner of Pensions Washington - D.C.

Washington D.C. Mar 5/53
Sir
I enclose herewith the application of Elizabeth Durfee of Mass, widow of Joseph Durfee for a pension under act of 3 rd Feb 1853.
Joseph Durfee was a pensioner act 7 th June 1832, at $540 per ann in Mass. Agency.
Reddick Pierce J. M. Shayler

No 427 Elizabeth Harpee widow of Joseph
Mass Oct 3 Feb 1833
post for annu. Aug 3 Feb 1833
J. M. Hayer Present

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, March 13 1833.
* hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that Since my former Certificate respecting the services of Joseph Dufee, I have found a "List of Officers of the Militia of the County of Bristol", on which is the name of Joseph Dufee, described as "2 d Major of the 2 d Regiment" — and the date of his appointment is stated as "June 9 th 1778." — Edward D. Bangs Secy

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, Feb'y 4 th 1833.
I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that Joseph Durfee was, on the 5 th day of July 1776, commissioned as a Captain in the 2 d Regiment of Militia in the County of Bristol, but there are no Rolls showing whether his company was in actual Service.
The name of Joseph Durfee is also borne on a "Pay roll of the Field and Staff Officers of a Regiment of Militia comm d by Col o John Hatheway detached from the State of Massachusetts Bay to do duty in the State of Rhode Island in the months of March and April in the year 1779" — & he is therein stated to have served in the capacity of Major from March 14 to April 15 1779 inclusive "1 month, 2 days" — & his wages are stated at £ 12 18 —
Turn over

It further appears that Joseph Dufree, was commis- sioned, April 23. 1779, as Lieut Colonel in the Regiment of Light Infantry to be raised for the defence of this & the other New England States, a- greeable to a Resol n of April 16. 1779 — but I do not find any Rolls showing his ac- tual service. The actual service of Commissioned Officers cannot often be ascertained & as few Rolls of the Field & Staff Officers are to be found. Edward D. Bangs Secy

Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Secretary's Office, July 5 th 1833.
I hereby Certify, That, from an examination of the Books and Documents, relating to Military Services in the War of the Revolution, which remain in this Department, it appears that
Since the Certificate signed by me, on the 4 th instant, I have found the name of Joseph Durfee borne on a Roll entitled "Abstract of extra pay due to the field and staff officers of Col. John Jacobs Regiment of light infantry from the State of Massachusetts Bay raised for the defence of the four New England States;" — and that he is therein stated to have served as a Lieutenant Colonel from May 15 to April 23 to December 1 "7 months 9 days". The year of service is not stated on the face of said Roll, but a warrant for the wages of

the officers named therein, it appears, (by a min- ute on the back) was on Jan. 28. 1780—ma- king it altogether probable that said service was in 1779.
Edward D. Dags. Secy.

John Dean, a resident of Freeport in the County of Bristol & State of Massachusetts aged Sixty or years on oath depose and say that I am well acquainted with Elizabeth Snipe of said Freeport, the widow of Joseph Snipe. I was well acquainted with the said Joseph - I was present at the marriage of the said Joseph & the said Elizabeth - They were married in said Freeport on the twenty ninth day of January A.D. Eighteen Hundred and nineteen. The Ceremony was performed by Apostles Tobey Eugene of Berkley. Her husband, the said Col. Joseph Snipe died, at said Freeport, on the tenth day of December A.D. Eighteen hundred & forty one, leaving the said Elizabeth, his widow, who is still living & is still his widow.
John Dean
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Bristol County ss
Be it known that on this twenty sixth day of February A.D. Eighteen

hundred & fifty three, the above named John Dean, who is well known to me and is a credible witness, made sol- emn oath to the truth of the above de- position by him subscribed, before me.
And I further certify that I am not the Attorney of the said Elizabeth Buffum and have no interest whatever in any pension or sum of money that may be obtained by her.
before me Ephraim Atwood Justice of the Peace

I Seth P Williams of Free town in the County of Bristol and State of Massachusetts. Physician aged sixty two years on oath depose and say that I was well acquainted with the late Col Joseph Burpee and his wife Elizabeth Burpee who is now his widow. They both resided in the said Free town - I was present at their marriage. They were married in said Free town on the twenty ninth day of January A.D. 1819 - by Esquire Toby of Berkley - The said Col Joseph Burpee died at said Free town on the 10 th day of December A.D. 1848 - leaving the said Elizabeth his widow who is still living and still remains his widow.
Seth P Williams
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Bristol ss.
On this twenty sixth day of February A.D. 1853, the above named Seth P Williams made solemn oath to the truth of the above statement by him subscribed, before me:
and I certify that the said Williams is well known to me and is a credible witness; and that I am not the Agent

or attorney of the said Elizabeth and have no interest whatever in this matter or in any perusing a sum of money she may obtain.
before me Ephraim Atwood Justice of the Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Bristol County ss.
I Henry Williams Register of the Court of Probate in and for said County, do hereby certify that Ephraim Atwood, whose signature is affixed to the foregoing certificate, was, at the date thereof, a Justice of the Peace, duly commissioned & qualified in and for said county of Bristol.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the Seal of said Court this fifth day of March A.D. eighteen hundred & fifty three.
Henry Williams Reg. d Probate

Brief in the case of Elizabeth Burfee, widow of Joseph Prescott County and State of Mass. act 3 Feb 1853
Claim. ("original," or for increase. )
Proof exhibited, (if original.)
Is it documentary, traditional, or supported by rolls? If either, state the substance.
The bond was a pension under act of June 1832, at $24 per annum.
Marriage proved by the testimony of two witnesses who were present, and who are now believed to be credible.
(If for increase.)
Has additional evidence been filed since the admission of the claim? If so, what?
Name and residence of Agent
J. H. Hayer, Wrentham.
Examining Clerk.

I Samuel Reid of Troy in the county of Bristol and state of Massachusetts of lawful age to give evidence do testify and say, that I knew Colonel Joseph Dunfee of Troy in the county and state aforesaid during the Revolutionary war and have been acquainted with him ever since that period. — That I knew him to be actively engaged much of the time during the war of the Revolution in the Massachusetts state service, doing duty as an officer, sometimes as captain and some times as Major — that during a part of the Revolutionary War, I was attached to a company under his command, stationed as a guard on the shores of the Taunton river. — That he commanded the Americans at Fall River when they fought the British troops at that place and compelled them to retreat — That for his bravery and valour in that engagement, he received a Major's commission soon afterwards — That I knew him to be a gallant officer, and zealously engaged in the cause and service of his country — and that he was engaged in that service a considerable part of the war — But how much of the time I am not able to say.
And further the deponent saith not
Samuel Reid
Bristol ss. August 28 th 1832 — Personally appeared the above named Samuel Reid and made oath to the foregoing statement by him made and subscribed — Before me James Hand Justice of the Peace
Bristol ss. Feby. 21 st 1833 — I hereby certify that Samuel Reid, who made oath before me to the above deposition by him subscribed, since deceased, was, while living, a credible person and a disinterested witness James Hand Justice of the Peace

Deposition of Samuel Reed son Joseph Dunfee
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Sworn to p. Feb. 21 - 1833. I certify that the within named Samuel Reed was a credible person while living - James Ford Just. of the Peace
Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Sworn to ss. I Anselm Bassett Register of the Court of Probate in Old for said County do hereby certify that James Ford whose signature is affixed to the within and above certificates is a Justice of the Peace duly qualified to administer oaths - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand & the seal of said Court this twentieth day of February March Eighteen hundred & thirty three - Anselm Bassett

I Richard Durfee of Tiverton in the county of Newport and state of Rhode Island, of lawful age to give evidence do testify and say, that from my youth up, a period of more than sixty years, I have been well acquainted with Col. Joseph Durfee of Bray, in the county of Bristol and state of Massachusetts — that I knew him to be engaged in the service of his country in the Revolutionary War. That in the early part of the War, he commanded a company of militia and was stationed in Bray and in Tiverton with the company under his command to protect the inhabitants there from the common enemy. At a later period in the Revolutionary War, I knew him to be still engaged in his country's service as a major. and at a still later period of that War, I knew the said Joseph Durfee to be actively engaged in his country's service as a lieut. col. commanding a regiment — I was not myself in the same company or regiment with the said Durfee, and cannot therefore state the length of time he served, nor the precise time when he served under his several commissions — But that he was long and actively engaged in the Revolutionary War I do know, because I often saw him in that service. It is my opinion and ever has been, that there were very few men more active, zealous and faithful in the service of their country in the Revolutionary War than the said Joseph Durfee —
And further the Deponent saith not — Richard Durfee
Bristol ss. Feby. 20 th 1833 — Personally appeared the above named Richard Durfee, a disinterested witness and a credible person, and made oath to the foregoing statement, by him subscribed Before me James Farn Justice of the Peace

With 2 Stephen's definitions for Col. Stephen
Commonwealth of Massachusetts - Bristol ss. I Anselm Barrett, Register of the Court of Probate within the said County of Bristol, do hereby certify that James Ford whose signature is affixed to the within certificate is a Justice of the Peace in the said County of Bristol duly qualified to administer oaths - In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and the seal of said Court this twentieth day of March Eighteen hundred thirty three Anselm Barrett

I, Benjamin Dufee of Troy in the County of Bristol and Commonwealth of Massachusetts of lawful age to give evidence do testify and say, that I have known Colonel Joseph Dufee of Troy in the County and Commonwealth aforesaid, between seventy and eighty years - that I knew him to be an officer in the Massachusetts State service in the Revolutionary War - that at different times, he held the commissions of Captain, Major and Colonel, and acted under each of those commissions in the service of his country during the War of the Revolution - that as Captain, he commanded a company of minute men stationed as a guard on the shores of Taunton river, during a part of the year 1775 and a part of the year 1776 - that as Captain, he commanded another company sent into the state of New York sometime in the year 1776 - That while he held the commission of Captain Major in 1777, he was stationed at Little Compton in the state of Rhode Island - and continued there something more than a year - That after he received a Colonel's commission he commanded a regiment in General Gates Brigade and was doing duty with his regiment at Trenton and on Rhode Island until sometime after the British troops evacuated Rhode Island -
And further the deponent saith not -
Benjamin Dufee
Bristol ss. August 28 th 1832 - Personally appeared the above named Benjamin Dufee and made oath to the foregoing statement by him made and subscribed. Before me - James Lord Justice of the Peace

Deposition of Benjamin Dumper and Joseph Dumper
Commonwealth of Massachusetts
District 12. I, James Spratt, Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas for said County of Bristol, do hereby certify that James Lord Esq., whose signature is affixed to the within and annexed certificates, is a Justice of the Peace, within said County of Bristol, and duly qualified to administer oaths.
In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand, and affixed the Seal of said Court, this eighteenth day of September, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-three.
J. Spratt
Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Bristol ss. Feb 21 st 1833 I certify that the within named Benjamin Dumper is a credible person - James Lord Justice of the Peace

P Washington D. C. August 14/1895 Commissioner of Pensions Washington D. C. Dear Sir: P
Please furnish me with a copy of such papers as are filed, with the application for pension, on account of the Revolutionary War of Col. Joseph Durfee of Newton Mass. and of Nancy Durfee widow of Abner of Newton R.D. these people were ancestors of mine, and the compliance with my request will be highly esteemed by
Yours Respectfully Wm S. Reed
Address 915 V. St. N.E. Washington D. C.

Supplemental.
(Joseph Durfee)
In the year 1775 he was commissioned as Captain and raised a company of minute men, which company was stationed at Fall River, Mass., for about 15 months; he then took command of a company of about 60 men and marched to the State of New York, where he joined the regiment commanded by Col. Thomas Carpenter, and in a few days after his arrival was actively engaged in the battle of White Plains; remained in New York State until November, 1776, when he marched with his company to Tiverton, R. I., and joined the regiment commanded by Col. John Cook, which regiment he assisted in covering the retreat of the American troops from that Island. Late in the year 1776 he was commissioned as Major in the regiment commanded by Col. John Hathaway, and was stationed at Little Compton, R. I., for about six months; in February or March, 1778, was stationed as a Major with 20 men under his command, at Fall River, Mass. In May of that year was engaged in a skirmish with the British troops at that place and compelled them to retreat with the loss of several men killed and wounded; August , 1778, he joined Gen. Sullivan's expedition to Rhode Island and served as a Major in Col. Whitney's regiment about one month; from thence he went to Pawtucket and did duty as a Major until December, 1778, a period of about 3 months. In January or February, 1779 he received a Lieutenant-

Colonel's commission, and with his regiment joined Gen. Cornell's brigade at Tiverton, R. I., where he continued to serve until the evacuation of the Island by the British troops in October, 1779. From that time until he left the service, late in December, 1779, he was stationed at Newport.